Harriers created an early opportunity on three minutes when Bennett, set-up by Hinton's fine cross-field pass, swung in a good low centre that Henriksen just failed to turn goalwards at the far post.

Oxford were not offering much upfront but a good punch from keeper Brock saved the visitors from a tricky situation on six minutes.

Oxford midfielder Waterman picked-up the first booking of the game two minutes later for a crude challenge on Harrier's midfield man Melligan.

Melligan was in the action again soon after Harriers had earned their first corner with the unmarked Irishman heading straight at keeper Woodman following Henriksen's left-wing cross.